Rebus

I was nervous when I saw they had revived Rebus as I was a big fan of the Ken Stott take on the character. I almost didn't watch it. However, that was a few years ago and time moves on. This version is gritty and modern. Rankin portrays the troubled character brilliantly. Really good acting that has a depth you don't often see. When he's pained, it there in the eyes.

Slow start in the first episode and took a while to get to grips with some of the characters, but by the second I'd warned to it. Then it just kept getting better until the final dramatic episode. If you've only seen the first one, stick with it.

I loved the series and really hope to see more.

Whenever I see the word "gritty" describing a TV series or a movie, it reminds me of a slick Hollywood PR type promoting something. I've seen parts of the first two "Rebus" series, but I never read the books. It's set in beautiful Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland. In a number of shots you can see Edinburgh Castle in the distance, once the home of Scottish kings and queens.

I didn't care for the storyline, it's another police procedural which is really a family drama. Writers are obsessed with stories of drugs, when drugs are really a small percentage of all crime. It's another cliched drug and organized crime story. With a better script I'd watch a second series. I like the cast, especially Richard Rankin as John Rebus and Brian Ferguson as Michael Rebus.

"Vera" and "Grace" are much better UK police dramas.

This had a couple of seriously good reviews and I was looking forward to episode 1. I suppose I was mildly disappointed.

Nothing too bad, simply a little predictable. I'm not a huge fan of police show back stories but this is now common place and this is no exception. I prefer more focus on detective work and solving crime and less of the marital (and extra marital) stuff.

Also a mention of some annoying camera work. The current 'edgy' style of moving the camera slightly and jerkily in some scenes simply detracts. I don't really understand the obsession some programme makers have with it.

Will watch episode 2 and decide.

I find it rather funny that All these reviewers are complaining that Ian Rankin won't like what's been done to his creation and they are obviously oblivious to the fact that he fully supports this reimagining of a younger Rebus set in the present day. I think Richard Rankin does a great job as Rebus and I can't wait for 2nd series. The supporting actors are growing on me . This Rebus is a bit more violent than I really remember and I personally could Do with a bit less of gratuitous violence but all in all It's a winner . Good writing , good acting, not much to dislike here. I can see this series doing well .

The BBC's latest adaptation of Ian Rankin's iconic Edinburgh detective, Rebus, boldly reinvents the character for a new generation-setting him in the present day as a younger, more volatile DS rather than the weary DI of past series. While this reboot leans into violence and realism, it manages to stay true to the spirit of Rankin's creation-something the author himself fully supports.

Richard Rankin is a standout as Rebus, bringing a brooding intensity and emotional vulnerability to the role. His fractured relationships, particularly with ex-wife Rhona and his brother Michael, ground the show in personal drama, while the unfolding criminal plot adds the necessary suspense and grit. The supporting cast, including Amy Manson and Brian Ferguson, deliver compelling performances that grow stronger as the series progresses.

This version of Rebus doesn't shy away from the darker sides of Edinburgh, with plenty of bleak cityscapes, complex moral dilemmas, and "industrial language." The violence may be more graphic than earlier adaptations, but it serves the narrative's tone rather than distracting from it. Gregory Burke's adaptation is sharp and well-paced, and the direction by Niall MacCormick and Fiona Walton ensures a cinematic feel throughout.

This Series has earned its place, combining solid writing, atmospheric visuals, and a fresh yet faithful take on a beloved character. Grittier than expected, but undoubtedly engaging, Rebus is a welcome return for the troubled detective.